Analysis of the searching behavior of human intermediaries revealed a routine for selection of search keys--free-text or controlled vocabulary--along a decision tree. Examples of decision rules demonstrate that these rules can be automated to significantly enhance the adaptability of intermediary expert systems. Eight sources are given. (EJS)

Describes a study of professional searchers that investigated their decisions about using search terms. The use of descriptors from a controlled vocabulary versus the use of textwords for free-text searching is examined, searching styles and differences in subject areas are discussed, and the quality of thesauri and indexing is considered. (six…

This study investigated online searching behavior manifested by 39 experienced professional searchers performing their regular, job-related searches in order to uncover the rules they use for the selection of search keys, and to represent these rules in a formal model that could be used in the construction of intermediary expert systems. The case…

Describes various modifications of query formulations, or moves, made by experienced online searchers to improve search results. Operational moves that modify query formulation while keeping meaning of query components unchanged and conceptual moves that change meaning of query components are described; all moves are then related to search tactics…

These three articles discuss online search key selection based on observations of professional online searchers, interviews, and analyses of the verbal and search protocols involved. The selection routine is described, the use of controlled vocabulary versus free text searching is examined, and searching styles are discussed. (44 references) (LRW)